Plantation workers pay homage to Vazhoor Soman

Kerala will never succumb to pressure against K-FON, development projects: CM Pinarayi Vijayan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday launched the Kerala Fibre Optic Network Ltds (K-FON) OTT services, while asserting that the state government would not succumb to pressure from vested interests trying to block the project or obstruct Keralas wider development initiatives. The government will never bend down to such pressure. K-FON will continue to grow and we will move ahead with our agenda of comprehensive development, he said. The CM noted that K-FON had already achieved one lakh connections in its first year and obtained an ISPA licence, enabling it to provide services across the country. The project has now set a target of 2.5 lakh connections by next year. He said K-FON has provided 1,16,445 connections across Kerala. Of these, 23,163 are in government offices, 3,079 are fibre-to-office links, 75,773 are commercial FTTH connections, and 14,194 are free connections for families facing financial hardship. The network has also leased out 7,000 km of dark fibre and signed agreements with 3,800 local network providers. To make its services affordable, KFON has introduced customer packages starting at Rs 444, the CM said. Pinarayi emphasised that K-FONs reach extends beyond cities into rural and remote areas. While private corporates focus on urban markets, K-FON is committed to digital equity. It is providing internet services in villages, tribal settlements, and even island communities where connectivity has long been a challenge, he said. The CM also highlighted the Connecting the Unconnected initiative, which uses corporate social responsibility funds to deliver free internet to families in tribal regions. Already, 103 families in Kottoor and 396 families in Attappadi have been provided with connections under the programme. He said the governments focus is not just on connectivity but on empowering marginalised communities through digital access. The event was attended by special secretary (electronics & IT) Seeram Sambasiva Rao, K-FON MD Santhosh Babu, Vattiyoorkavu MLA V K Prasanth, senior officials and local residents. The event began with a one-minute tribute to MLA Vazhoor Soman, who passed away earlier in the day.

Peerumade MLA Vazhoor Soman passes away

He collapsed while attending a revenue assembly at PTP Nagar in Thiruvananthapuram and was rushed to a hospital but his life could not be saved.

Kerala MLA Vazhoor Soman Passes Away

The body will be taken to Peermade.

Peerumedu MLA Vazhoor Soman passes away

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Senior CPI leader and Peerumedu MLA Vazhoor Soman, 72, passed away. He collapsed while attending a government programme in the state capital on Thursday. Though he was rushed to a nearby private hospital, his life could not be saved. A first-time legislator, he was elected to the assembly in the 2021 election by defeating Cyriac Thomas of Congress. He was serving as AITUC state vice president and its national council member. Known to be close to former CPI state secretary Kanam Rajendran, Soman has been active in state politics as a trade unionist. Born on September 14, 1952, to Kunjupappan and Parvathy at Vazhoor in Kottayam, he came to politics through All India Students' Federation (AISF). He has held many significant positions including Idukkki district panchayat welfare standing committee chairman from 2005 to 2010 and later as chairman of the State Warehousing Corporation from 2016 to 2021. He is survived by wife Bindu Soman, children, Sobin Soman and Sobith Soman.

EkinCare elevates Somak Ray to co-founder from vice president of operations

Wellness company ekincare has promoted Somak Ray, previously VP of Operations, to co-founder. Ray will now spearhead operational scaling, strategic partnerships, and international expansion. Since 2016, he has been instrumental in building the company's infrastructure, including leading a large-scale vaccination initiative and expanding the provider network, contributing significantly to ekincare's growth and market presence.

PPFAS Mutual Fund announces appointment of Tejas Soman as CIO - Debt

PPFAS Mutual Fund has appointed Tejas Soman as its Chief Investment Officer - Debt, aiming to bolster its fixed income capabilities. Soman brings over 12 years of experience from SBI Funds Management and other financial institutions. His expertise will be crucial in developing thoughtful debt strategies and enhancing the fund house's offerings in the fixed income segment.

Global meet will project Sabarimala as world-class spiritual destination: minister V N Vasavan

PATHANAMTHITTA: The first-ever Global Ayyappa Meet, scheduled to be held at Pampa on September 20, is gathering momentum with preparations in full swing. The event will see the participation of around 3,000 delegates from various countries, alongside Union ministers and chief ministers from other states. Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan said the meet aims to project Sabarimala as a world-class spiritual destination. A Rs 1,300-crore master plan has been drawn up for the comprehensive development of Sabarimala. Also, work on the proposed Sabarimala airport and railway line is progressing, with the airport expected to be commissioned by 2028, the minister said during a preparatory meeting at Pampa. Jointly organised by the state government and the Travancore Devaswom Board, the meet is expected to mark a new chapter in the pilgrimage centres history. The minister added that suggestions from devotees across the world would be actively considered. To facilitate the event, a central reception office will be opened in Pathanamthitta, with additional reception centres at Pampa, Perunad and Seethathode. KSRTC will arrange transport facilities for delegates, who will be provided with accommodation across various centres in the district. Facilities will also be made for darshan, while modern medical care will be ensured in hospitals at Pampa and nearby areas. Vehicle parking will be arranged at Hill Top, and voluntary organisations will be roped in for sanitation and cleaning work. The organisational arrangements for the meet were also finalised in the meeting. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will serve as chief patron of a 1,001-member organising committee. Speaker A N Shamseer, Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan, Revenue Minister K Rajan and the devaswom minister will be the patrons. The general committee will function under Deputy Speaker Chittayam Gopakumar, while the steering committee will be headed by the devaswom minister, with Health Minister Veena George as vice-chairperson. MLA K U Jenish Kumar will chair the programme committee, Chief Whip N Jayaraj will head the finance committee, and Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar will lead the sponsorship committee. Infrastructure, transportation, accommodation, security, and media committees will be chaired by legislators Pramod Narayan, Mathew T Thomas, Sebastian Kulathunkal, ADGP S Sreejith, and MLA Vazhoor Soman respectively. TDB president P S Prasanth said the convention would further enhance Sabarimalas significance, as the number of pilgrims has been steadily increasing every year.

Somany Ceramics halts operations at Haryana facility amid GAIL pipeline leak

Somany Ceramics has suspended operations at its Kassar plant in Haryana due to a temporary gas supply disruption from GAIL following a pipeline leakage caused by heavy rainfall. GAIL has initiated restoration work, and Somany is monitoring the situation closely. The company assures that sufficient stock is available to meet sales demand, and all other plants remain operational.

Wedding & MICE Conclave calls for policy to position Kerala as foremost destination in the segment

KOCHI: Indias first Wedding and MICE Conclave concluded in Kochi on Saturday with stakeholders calling for a comprehensive policy framework that helps Kerala emerge as the countrys foremost destination in this fast-growing segment by leveraging the states niche strengths as a global tourism brand. Kerala Tourism Director Sikha Surendran, while inaugurating the valedictory session of the August 14-16 meet, said suggestion had come from the participants for the formation of MICE Promotion Bureaus in the states major cities, beginning with Kochi. The state must also draw up a strategic global marketing and communications plan that showcases its core strengths as the most ideal MICE destination of India, she noted, as the event organised by the Kerala Travel Mart (KTM) Society in association with the states Department of Tourism drew to a close. Positioning Kerala as a hub of wedding and MICE tourism will boost the states participation in allied global events, she pointed out at the session chaired by KTM Society President Jose Pradeep. The closing session was also addressed by the past presidents of KTM Society that strives to create a common ground for travel agents from across the globe and connect them with the service providers in Kerala. Sikha urged the KTM Society to come out with a detailed report featuring the deliberations from the conclave and a focused roadmap to carry forward the momentum set by the meet. The government will certainly act upon the key takeaways from this event, she added, striking an optimistic note on the impact of the conclave that hosted a flurry of buyer-seller meets, besides two seminars featuring international experts. Overall, the conclave has been a resounding success by laying a firm foundation for Kerala in its future growth and leadership in the wedding and MICE segment, she said. Thanking the speakers and stakeholders for sharing their perspectives during various sessions and business interactions, Shikha said Keralas projected advancements in the weddings and MICE segment are not owing to just our natural beauty and cultural cosmopolitanism, but also due to government initiatives and support from travel and hospitality industry. KTM Society president Jose Pradeep, in his address, said the conclave has enabled Kerala to set a benchmark in the country for the field of wedding and MICE meetings, adding that the event hosted 6,623 business meets. KTM Secretary S Swaminathan presented mementos to the organizing teams of the conclave, while KTM Treasurer Jibran Asif proposed a vote of thanks. India Tourism (Kochi) Assistant Director M Narendran welcomed the gathering. Other speakers on the occasion included KTM past Presidents E M Najeeb, Abraham George and Baby Mathew Somatheeram besides KTM Chief Executive Officer Rajkumar K., Vice-President Hari Kumar C and Joint Secretary Jobin Akkarakalam.

Remembering 'Sholay': Dharmendras Pranks, Romances on Set, and That Epic Climax

The most chilling scene in my opinion is the revelation of the fake coin in the climax, writes Bhawana Somaaya.

A.P. CM calls for urgent flood precautions in view of heavy rain

Emphasising efficient use of the heavy inflows, Naidu orders diversion of up to four tmc ft of floodwater daily to Somasila and Kandaleru reservoirs

Scan-and-ride in city: Urban mobility takes public e-bicycle sharing route

SHILLONG, Aug 12: The Meghalaya government on Tuesday launched Shillongs first-ever public bicycle sharing (PBS) system, marking a major milestone towards sustainable urban mobility in the hill city. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, along with fitness icon Milind Soman, unveiled the initiative at a special programme. The PBS project, part of the Shillong Urban Mobility [] The post Scan-and-ride in city: Urban mobility takes public e-bicycle sharing route appeared first on The Shillong Times .

86 and Thriving: Milind Somans Mom Usha Shows Youre Never Too Old to Be Fit!

Think age limits activity? Usha Soman, at 86, proves otherwise. She's a powerful example of an active and healthy lifestyle.

INTERVIEW | Being the good girl doesnt really help: Director Anjali Menon

She is the first woman director in the Malayalam film industry to deliver a blockbuster, but Anjali Menon does not want to be labelled a woman filmmaker. Of late, she has been more into activist mode as one of the founding members of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC). Close on the heels of the state governments first-ever film conclave, the screenwriter-filmmaker opened up on the upcoming film policy, the kind of change WCC hopes to bring in the industry, and of course, her cinematic journey so far, in a conversation with the TNIE . Excerpts Having organised a film conclave for the first time, the state government is all set to bring out a film policy... The government plans to address a slew of concerns raised by many. Consultations have been held with more than 75 organisations to hear their opinions and find solutions. Creating such a space itself is a great initiative. Being a director and a WCC representative, what do you want the policy to highlight? We did a lot of research on different reports, judgments, POSH Act, and their practical implementation... identifying issues and looking into appropriate solutions. In places like Japan, South Korea, South Africa, Australia and the UK, women groups/academicians have studied issues women face in the film industry. Based on those, remedies were suggested. Do women across film industries worldwide face similar issues? Yes, very very similar. Power, corruption, sexual harassment, and a lack of space for redressing grievances are all common issues. Thats why solutions too have to be similar. Its the first time this is being approached in a systematic manner. Im glad all organisations were given equal space. Its a first for WCC, which otherwise is rarely included in industry discussions. From what was earlier a creative space, has Malayalam cinema now shifted to being an industry with an increased awareness on work ethics? Yes, awareness is seeping in slowly. For a long time, they didnt feel the need for that. When change happens, a lot of resistance is bound to arise. How good or bad is Malayalam cinema when it comes to women? There are industries far worse than Kerala, with no space even to speak up. At the same time, there are better industries too in India. We feel optimistic when young producers are eager to comply with regulations like forming internal committees. An often-heard narrative is that compared to others, the Malayalam industry provides much better working conditions and that WCC and Hema Committee villainised it needlessly If thats true, why do so many speak about labour issues, filing complaints with WCC? These are not womens issues but labour issues. This is a creative field. Creating narratives is part of the job. Resistance comes in many forms... some people say a straight NO. A few others try to weaken our movement. Some others resist by completely ignoring, or manufacturing a narrative. We have started countering all such narratives. When a survivor comes forward, the existing system makes it so hard for them. They continue as nameless, faceless entities, unable to present their own perspectives. Their narrative gets erased, while everyone else gets to have a narrative. Survivors narratives were missing for long. WCCs biggest contribution is keeping the survivors narrative alive. Even the word survivor it was always victim earlier emerged only in the past seven years. Calling them survivor, not victim, is in itself a big shift. Is it true that many actors lost opportunities after becoming WCC members? One does become unpopular, not just in terms of getting jobs... your whole circle may change. There will be many who are uninterested in those taking a stand, many who think working with such people is risky. Being a writer-director, I speak from a privileged position. My risks are different. Ive to ensure the safety of everyone on my set. While choosing an artist, do you look at them as an artist or an individual? As a director, do you have an issue with casting someone who has faced MeToo allegations? When I make a film, the process of making it is equally important to me; not just the success of the film. Its a process where so many people work together... a creative collaboration. Im very particular in making sure that in such a space, negative experiences dont happen. So, if Im really worried that someones presence may compromise safety, or harm my crew in any way, I wouldnt cast him. Even if that actor is the perfect fit for a character? Even if they are perfect, I need to see whether they are perfect for my process. Often, it so happens that an actors process differs from mine. Ensuring the safety of both my crew and my process is my responsibility. If I sense any such threat, I prefer to keep it at bay. Wont that rule out the possibility of someone evolving? There are people whove been in difficult situations, whove acknowledged their wrongdoings, and tried to reform. Thats different. We cant punish someone forever, if they genuinely try to change. But one has to first call things out. Only then there is space for growth/transformation. You cant create space before accountability. Google describes you as the first woman filmmaker in the Malayalam industry to deliver a blockbuster (Smiles) Thats Googles terminology. My career and work are parts of who I am, but not the whole. I just hope Im not the last. I want many to be there, many more. My gender is part of who I am, but when I direct, I dont think, Im doing this because Im a woman. You have an issue being tagged a woman filmmaker? Yes, I do. But that tag has inspired many women in Malayalam cinema I know... which is why I eventually stopped resisting. But the truth is a film doesnt become a hit because its made by a woman. A film becomes a hit because audiences connect with it. Thats a gender-neutral space. Isnt a woman directors experience inherently different? No male director has had to write a script while pregnant or shoot with a three-month-old baby like you did (Smiles) Yes. I do understand where the tag helps... it helps inspire women. Beyond that, I dont want to compete based on gender. Im trying to succeed in a gender-neutral space. Box office doesnt have a gender. The only way to break the ceiling is through audience acceptance. Could you take us through your filmmaking process? When I make a movie, the intent is always to reach people and find acceptance. People began to notice me after one particular film became a hit. The film I made before that was a commercial failure. I was a woman director then too. My self-evaluation doesnt depend on box office numbers. Im a filmmaker. If the film is accepted, great. If not, thats okay too. I just keep doing my work. What was the experience like before Bangalore Days happened? It was tough in the beginning. Many doubted my capabilities. Before people believe in you, you have to constantly prove yourself. Some openly told me I wasnt a great filmmaker and questioned my decisions. I told them: this is my film and I want these shots. But one good shot was all it took. And all were on board. Some women actors told me they felt a kind of freedom theyd never experienced before. Its about conditioning. Does a woman filmmaker face more hurdles than a male filmmaker? Yes, she faces them until she makes a hit movie. A male filmmaker will easily get the chance to make the next film even if his first flops. But that isnt the case with women. After Bangalore Days, did things become easier for you? Much better. People started showing interest in producing my films and I too got the benefit of the doubt... for instance, the feeling that maybe she is right. There is also greater investor confidence. How do you prefer to be known as, a screenplay writer or a director? I started writing because I love being a director. Im always the first one to reach my film set. I really enjoy being on a set. I want to be at a new location each day. Its like when ones painting... you forget time and space. Have you always aspired to be a commercially successful director? I just want to make movies that people can connect to. Thats all I want to connect with people. Film is just a medium. Your films carry a nostalgic tone and seem rooted in personal memories. Is that a reflection of how you see life? Must be (smiles). What you are will reflect in your films. People raised outside Kerala can relate more to Manjadikkuru There are many aspects to being a migrant. Well always have a hybrid identity. I cannot say Im a 100% true Malayali as I havent spent much time here. I was born and raised elsewhere. Hows your filmmaking process? I think in English. My first script is always in English. My draft itself is a screenplay with dialogue. At first, some scenes come to me. I write only those scenes. Then I think about how these connect, and about how the character graph will develop. Writing is very instinctive. When the first draft is almost done, I start thinking about its structure. I like to play with the structure. When it gets into a certain shape, I convert it into Malayalam. I have now started writing Malayalam dialogues as I can hear them clearly in Malayalam (smiles). In your films, inanimate objects often take on emotional or symbolic roles. Is this a conscious creative choice? I am a sentimental creature. Wherever I go, I collect things. My son teases me. We call it treasure. When he comes home, he asks me if I got anything today... it could be a leaf or a stone. Also, male characters often appear fragile or vulnerable, expressing their emotions unabashedly. Is that a conscious choice? I like such men. When we make a film, we create a world we want to see its a window to our heads. I like sensitive people. There is no gender there. I like real, expressive humans. The struggle to express oneself is beautiful and witnessing that in another person feels intimate. I think we make it hard for men by always portraying them in a certain way. They need space to be sensitive. So, as a woman, when I create a male character, I show what I find most attractive. Its just a part of the process. So, you dont like alpha males or macho men? No, I prefer sensitive people (smiles). Speaking of Backstage, female friendship is a rarely explored topic. Why did you focus on mending a broken relationship rather than showcasing an existing friendship? In female friendships, resilience is a huge factor. A space one can return to, even if we think its lost I think thats really lovely. I havent seen that in many places. I love watching people take emotional risks. Its heartbreaking when one person reaches out and the other refuses to accept it. I feel happy when someone cries after watching my movie. Im someone who really treasures friendships. The idea was to show resilience that no matter how far apart you are, theres still intimacy. These days, does your activist avatar take the upper hand over your creative side? I think the whole WCC experience has been remarkable. When we joined, we hadnt really thought much about it. But once within, we found ourselves among strong, vocal, opinionated women. Theres no hierarchy. All have their opinions and express them freely. Ive learnt a lot from the people I work with, especially academicians and teachers like Asha and Didi. They teach in a gentle manner... how to communicate without being violent even in disagreement, how to create space for someone and still hold on to your opinion. So, yes, maybe that experience really motivated me and maybe thats why these stories happened. Has that experience also transformed you as a filmmaker? There are many experiences that shape you this is definitely one of them. It hasnt completely transformed me as a filmmaker, but it has made me more interested in the dynamics between women. Working so intensely with so many women is rare for me. I never thought Id last this long in such a space. But its been a positive experience, so it has lasted. Theres a rumour your next film is with Nazriya Nazim I too heard so (chuckles). Film reviews are a hot topic these days. Can reviews affect movies? It does affect. First-day perception definitely does. I dont think banning them is a solution. We need proper reviews. Filmmakers get genuine feedback from balanced reviews. Its a reflection of your work, a communication from the audience. Its time to make them aware they are also part of the fraternity. Filmmakers who influenced you I really adore Padmarajan sirs works my all-time favourite. I also like Gulzar saabs works very poetic. (Krzysztof) Kieslowski is another favourite. They all tell stories with intimacy. What do you have to say about films like Kerala Story? I havent seen the movie. But I think authenticity is the key; movies that are not authentic are problematic. Political correctness in films is now much-discussed Its a confusing space for me. As a filmmaker, you want to show the real thing. I think we should avoid glorifying certain negative things. Thats where I would draw the line. We are a society in which movies have a major influence. In such a society, glorifying negative things is not good, particularly when its a movie for family consumption movies that will be watched by children. I think you need to be careful. On the other hand, there are movies which try to portray certain realistic truths. At times, such movies could be disturbing and shouldnt be kept for family consumption. Pushing everything under the U certificate... glorifying things by saying that it happens in our country... is problematic. Whats the relevance of the censor board? Theres a perspective that censorship is unnecessary In an ideal world, theres no need for censorship. But the way content is consumed in our country, I dont know whether we are mature enough to have no certification at all. You are a filmmaker who works with your own scripts. Is that because you feel it is tough to direct other peoples scripts? I dont know. Only now am I working with another writer. I loved the writing, and both our sensibilities are aligned. Im excited as Im interpreting another persons writing. It seems easy, but I can say so only after directing it. Currently, another director is writing for me and Im writing for another. There have been reports about disputes within WCC. Are Manju Warrier and Vidhu Vincent still part of the collective? Vidhu Vincent has officially resigned from WCC. Manju Warrier is an active member of the collective and regularly takes part in our meetings. Many people who stepped forward with sexual harassment allegations in the light of the Hema Committee report have withdrawn complaints. Wont these torpedo WCC initiatives? If there is a system to handle this, such a crisis can be averted. If there is a system, I can work with anyone. Our fight is to build a system. If there is a system, the producer will benefit the most. People should be aware of what to do and what not to. Now, people are aware to some extent, but that wasnt the case seven years ago. The MeToo movement came at a time when a lot of women were taking up behind-the-camera roles. There now seems to be a tendency to keep them away to avoid risk If you have a system, you dont have to worry about any of this. If unnecessary activities are prohibited, if theres a POSH clause in employees contracts, they will report if required. Theres a mechanism to look into false allegations too. As a filmmaker, whats your vision? I just tell stories. I dont have any long-term vision. I want to live... storytelling is part of my life. There may come a time when I dont make cinema, I may move to another medium. Who knows? Storytelling is something I know Ill be doing all the time... in which medium, I dont know. Cinema is currently my favourite medium. I share stories that have touched me. Its building connections... Id love to connect with an audience. When someone, unknown, and from a faraway, unseen country writes to you after watching your movie, its such a beautiful feeling. Theres a thread that connects all of us. Many young women want to enter cinema, especially behind the camera. What would you say to them? Dont listen to anyone, just follow your instinct. In our social context, the hardest part is getting permission from everyone to enter the industry. You have to come into this medium for the right reasons. People who are more passionate about it are the ones who will stay here. You need to have a voice. More than anything, believe in yourself. Dont listen to anyone who says you cant do it. Be well-defined. Otherwise, even if youre a very good girl, its going to be very difficult. Also, I dont think being the good girl really helps (laughs out). TNIE team: Cithara Paul, Anil S, Aparna Nair, Unnikrishnan S, Parvana K B, Varsha Somaraj B P Deepu (photos)

BJP rejigs Kerala core committee, boosts minority, youth representation ahead of polls

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With an eye on upcoming elections, the state BJP on Thursday reconstituted its core committee, increasing minority representation and inducting young blood. Party veteran O Rajagopal and senior leader A N Radhakrishnan were dropped even as the committee was enlarged from 15 to 22 members. Though former state president C K Padmanabhan did not figure in the initial list, he was included after the omission drew attention and threatened to kick off a controversy. Issuing a revised list with his name, the BJP blamed clerical error for the omission. The communal equation seems to have been one of the central themes of the reconstitution. Keeping with its new-found bonhomie with the community, Christian representation went up from two to four. Anoop Antony and Shone George made their way into the committee in addition to existing members George Kurian and Anil K Antony. A P Abdullakutty is the lone Muslim face in the panel. One of the new inductees, Sobha Surendran is the lone woman leader in the core committee. Rajya Sabha MP C Sadanandan and general secretary S Suresh are among the new additions. The new panel has two special invitees - state prabhari Prakash Javadekar and saha prabhari Aparajita Sarangi. Rajeev Chandrasekhar BJP rejig: Vice-president posts raised from three to seven The new core committee comprises Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Suresh Gopi, George Kurian, C Sadanandan, P K Krishnadas, V Muraleedharan, Kummanam Rajasekharan, K Surendran, C K Padmanabhan, A P Abdullakutty, Anil K Antony, M T Ramesh, Sobha Surendran, S Suresh, Anoop Antony, P Sudheer, K K Aneeshkumar, Shone George, C Krishnakumar, B Gopalakrishnan, K Soman, and V Unnikrishnan. One of the key changes in the reconstituted body is the increase in the number of vice presidents from three to seven, indicating a broader organisational restructuring of the state unit. The inclusion of Sadanandan, Sobha, Suresh, Anoop, Shone, Unnikrishnan and Soman into the partys key decision-making body indicates a notable shift in its organisational dynamics. The reorganisation reflects the partys renewed strategy to bolster its organisational strength and political outreach in Kerala ahead of crucial elections.

6 killed in air ambulance crash just outside Kenyas capital

NAIROBI, Aug 7: A plane belonging to an air ambulance service provider crashed in a residential area just outside Kenyas capital on Thursday, killing at least six people, according to a local official and the aircrafts owner. AMREF Flying Doctors said that the mid-size jet, a Cessna Citation XLS, took off from an airport in Nairobi and was heading to the territory of Somaliland when it crashed. The service provider didnt provide the number of casualties or a possible cause, [] The post 6 killed in air ambulance crash just outside Kenyas capital appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Use scientific research to promote sustainable use and conservation of natural resources: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan

Kerala Science Award 2023 presented to S. Somanath, former chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) at R&D Summit organised by Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment

India needs concentrated tooling hubs for advanced manufacturing for aerospace and space domain: S Somanath

S Somanath called for the establishment of dedicated manufacturing hubs across India, stressing the critical absence of a comprehensive aerospace manufacturing framework. He underscored the pressing demand for skilled technicians in tooling and related sectors, while also highlighting the supply chain challenges that impede India's rocket production capabilities.

IISER Tirupati Holds 6th Convocation, Confers 255 Degrees

Delivering the convocation address, chief guest Samir Somaiya, chairman and managing director of Godavari Biorefineries and chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University congratulated the graduating students and praised the architectural design of the campus.

PEC confers Honorary Doctorate upon former ISRO Chairman Dr S Somanath

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 4: In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of science and technology, the Punjab Engineering College (PEC), Chandigarh conferred the Degree of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) on Dr S Somanath, former Chairman Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), today. The ceremony was presided over by Rajinder Gupta, Chairman, Board of Governors, PEC, in the gracious presence of Prof Rajesh Kumar Bhatia, director, PEC, Prof S K Mangal (Dean Academic Affairs) and Prof Uma Batra [] The post PEC confers Honorary Doctorate upon former ISRO Chairman Dr S Somanath appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Kargil war veteran's kin alleges Hindutva activists stormed into house, asked to prove nationality

PUNE: The family members of a Kargil war veteran have alleged that a group of around 80 people affiliated to a Hindutva outfit barged into their house in Pune and demanded a proof of their Indian citizenship, accusing them of being Bangladeshis. The incident took place in Chandannagar area of the city Saturday midnight, they claimed, adding that some police personnel in plain clothes were also present at that time but they remained mute spectators. Irshad Shaikh (48) said his elder brother Hakimuddin Shaikh, who currently resides in Uttar Pradesh's Pratapgarh, served in the Indian Army and took part in the Kargil war. He retired as a havildar from the Engineers Regiment in 2000. While my elder brother lives in Uttar Pradesh, I, along with my two brothers and their children, have been living in Pune's Chandannagar area for the last many decades, he said. On Saturday midnight, around 80 people suddenly came to the house and began banging on the door. When the family opened it, some of them barged in and started demanding Aadhaar cards of the family members. When they showed the documents, the group termed them as fake and asked the women and children to produce Aadhaar cards, Shaikh alleged. He said they tried to explain to the group that the family had been residing there for the last 60 years and that apart from his elder brother, two of his uncles had also served in the army. But members of the group were in no mood to listen. They hurled abuses and accused us of being Bangladeshis. I told them that if they want to investigate, they are welcome to do so, but barging into someone's house, hurling abuses and forcing children to show documents at midnight was not appropriate, he said. Shaikh claimed that when the group of Hindutva activists began chanting 'Jai Shree Ram' and tried to force the family members to come to the police station, two individuals accompanying them identified themselves as policemen. During the entire episode, these two policemen in plain clothes stood by silently and did not do anything, he said. He also alleged that when they reached the Chandannagar police station, the woman police inspector took their documents and asked them to wait outside. After making us wait for two hours, the officer told us to visit again the next day and warned that if we fail to do so, we would be declared Bangladeshi nationals, Shaikh said. He added that they visited the police station again the next day. We were asked not to make an issue out of the incident and not to file any complaint. Police are now trying to pressure us and show that no one barged into our house, Shaikh, who works in the transport sector, said. If there were any discrepancies in the documents, the police would have taken coercive action, he said. But since all our documents are genuine, they are now asking us to stay quiet, he claimed, adding that he told the officers they could provide a proof of their Indian citizenship dating back to 400 years. Several members of the family had served in the Indian army, Shaikh said. My uncle was injured in the 1971 war after a bomb explosion and was awarded for his valour. Another uncle fought alongside Abdul Hameed during the Indo-Pak War of 1965, he added. Shaikh said they approached social activist Rahul Dambale, who helped them contact a senior police officer. The officer assured action in the matter, but even after three to four days, no steps have been taken, he alleged. Speaking to PTI, Hakimuddin Shaikh, who served in the Engineers Regiment, said what happened to his family in Pune was wrong. We have been living in Pune for over 50 years. While living in Pune, my uncle Mohammad Salim was recruited into the Indian Army. What happened with my family was wrong, and if needed, I will speak to the police and seek an explanation, he said. However, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 4) Somay Munde asserted that no such incident involving a large group barging into Shaikh's house took place. He, however, said that some police personnel did visit the place to verify their documents. The drive against illegal Bangladeshi nationals is underway in the city. Under this drive, police received some information and went to the house to verify it. Since it was night, no women were brought to the police station and only some male members were asked to accompany the police. As it was late, they were asked to come back the next day. Prima facie, no illegality was found in their documents, Munde said. The police team that visited the house has video footage of the inquiry, he added. Meanwhile, Dambale, president of the National Conference for Minority, said the Hindutva outfit members tried to terrorise the war veteran's family members. We have sought registration of an FIR in this connection. We will meet Pune Commissioner of Police Amitesh Kumar to demand action, he said.

Heavy rain lashes Delhi, IMD warns of intense showers across India till August 4

NEW DELHI: Heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms affected several regions of Delhi, providing a respite from the prevailing humid weather conditions on Tuesday morning. IMD predicts heavy rainfall across India until August 4. Northwest India, including East Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh, is expected to experience extremely heavy rainfall on July 29, with heavy showers in Uttarakhand, Punjab, and Haryana. West India, including Konkan and Gujarat, will see isolated heavy rain on July 29 and light to moderate showers for 6-7 days. Northeast India, including Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, is expected to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall. East and Central India, including Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, will experience isolated heavy rain and thunderstorms. South Peninsular India, including Kerala and Coastal Karnataka, is expected to experience heavy rain on July 29-30, accompanied by strong winds (40-50 kmph). Light to moderate rain and thunderstorms are likely across most regions for the next week. Meanwhile, Air India has issued a travel advisory warning passengers of potential disruptions to flight operations to and from Delhi on Tuesday morning due to gusty winds and rain. The airline urged travellers to check their flight status before heading to the airport and to allow extra time for their journey. Gusty wind and rain may impact flight operations to and from Delhi this morning. Please check your flight status before heading to the airport and allow extra time for your journey, Air India posted on X. According to IMD, it is forecasted that there will be fairly widespread to widespread rainfall over Northwest, Northeast, and Eastern India during the next few days. Scattered to fairly widespread rainfall is also likely over Central and Peninsular India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over East Rajasthan on Wednesday (i.e July 30). Heavy rainfall is also very likely at isolated locations in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, Muzaffarabad, Jharkhand, Kerala, Mahe, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Sikkim, and West Rajasthan on Wednesday. On July 30, Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds (30-40 kmph) are very likely at isolated places in Bihar, Gangetic West Bengal, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Muzaffarabad, as well as Jharkhand. Additionally, thunderstorms with lightning are expected at isolated locations in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Vidarbha. Strong surface winds are anticipated at isolated places in Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Mahe, and Lakshadweep. Squally winds with speeds of 45-55 kmph, gusting to 65 kmph, are likely along and off the coasts of Somalia, Yemen, south Oman, westcentral and eastcentral Arabian Sea, southwest Arabian Sea, and southern parts of the north Arabian Sea. Squally weather with wind speeds of 40-50 kmph, gusting to 60 kmph, is expected over parts of the east-central Arabian Sea, along and off the Konkan, Goa, and Karnataka coasts. Similar conditions with winds of 45-55 kmph, gusting to 65 kmph, are forecast along and off Gujarat and adjoining northeast Arabian Sea.

Royal Challenge American Prides Rodeo Nights Makes Statement in Hyderabad

Hosted at Aqua, The Park, in Somajiguda, Hyderabad, the event was crafted to spark curiosity and raise a toast to the American spirit among young, urban consumers.

Telangana HC Inaugurates Legal Services Clinic for Defence Personnel, Ex-Servicemen and Families

After inauguration of the clinic at the Sainik Welfare Office at Somajiguda, Justice Sam Koshy said that the clinic was established with a pious cause to extend legal assistance that defence personnel, their dependents and ex-servicemen and their family members require.

Relief For MIAL: Bombay High Court Rules in Favour Over Celebi Replacement

A bench of Justice Somasekhar Sundaresan said the interim protection granted in May cannot be continued as the Delhi HC earlier this month dismissed Celebis petition against similar contract termination of the Delhi airport and revocation of security clearance.

Veerashaiva Lingayat mutts of Guru, Virakta traditions should come together: Somanna

The Minister of State for Railways has emphasised the need for the coming together of these mutts in the interest of the community

Train blasts verdict shocking, will move SC, says Fadnavis

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis expressed shock at the Bombay HC's decision to acquit all 12 accused in the 11/7 train blasts case, assuring an immediate appeal to the Supreme Court. BJP's Kirit Somaiya and Shiv Sena's Milind Deora echoed the sentiment, urging the state government to seek top legal experts for the appeal.

Insider track | Diplomatic glitz at Sangh Soiree

Mark your calendars and perhaps, your diplomatic protocols. If things go as planned, New Delhis diplomatic circuit may find itself sitting front row at an event hosted not by the Ministry of External Affairs, but by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). In what could be a first, officials from various embassies (with the predictable exception of our western neighbour, Pakistan) are being invited to a three-day lecture series by the RSS. The occasion? The Sangh is gearing up to celebrate 100 years of its existence, and its kicking things off with lecture marathons in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. The Delhi edition will open the series at Vigyan Bhawan on August 26, with Mohan Bhagwat, the RSS Sarsanghchalak himself, delivering the inaugural address. Were reaching out to various embassies to join us in this lecture series and hope they respond positively, said a senior RSS functionary, sounding both hopeful and diplomatic. The idea, it seems, is to bring together diplomats, scholars, and the capitals whos who to talk about key issues concerning Bharat and perhaps to showcase the Sanghs intellectual side. And no, this isnt just another round of speeches and samosas. Theres a clear message brewing: The Sanghs chief lecture will give us a new direction which we are following for a powerful and viksit Bharat, said the functionary, firmly, and the RSS is aiming for soft power points. Poll plunge for IAS close to Nitish With double engine governments at the Centre and in Bihar, it hardly took a month to approve the VRS application of 2010 batch IAS officer Dinesh Kumar Rai. He is considered a close confidant of Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, and the grapevine in Delhi and Patna suggests that he will contest the upcoming assembly polls on the ruling JD(U) ticket from a constituency in Sahabad district. Incidentally, Rai was scheduled to superannuate from the service in January 2026,but he applied for the VRS on June 13, 2025, and the Union government through the Department of Personnel & Training obliged him with effect from July 15, 2025. At the time of leaving the job, Rai, a Bihar Administrative Service officer promoted to IAS, was serving as Secretary, Revenue and Land Reforms. Earlier, he was also in the CMO. Fighting radicalisation in prisons The Modi government has flagged growing radicalisation in prisons as a serious concern and has asked states and UTs to counter it effectively. In a circular, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) urged prison authorities to develop standardised screening tools to assess inmates behaviour, associations, and ideological leanings at the time of admission. States have been advised to work closely with law enforcement and intelligence agencies to identify inmates who may pose a radical influence on others. The MHA also recommended setting up independent high-security prison complexes to house hardened and radicalised offenders, including terrorists. Seeking ASI help for Agra Metro Facing tepid ridership on the newly launched Agra Metro, the Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) has sought help from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to boost visibility and attract more commuters, particularly tourists. Despite its first corridor partially connecting major landmarks like the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Sikandara, and Mankameshwar Temple, the metro is struggling to draw riders. UPMRC cited low public awareness and limited access to route and service information as key reasons behind the underwhelming response. To fix this, it has requested ASIs support in displaying promotional videos and pamphlets at protected monuments and on the ASIs official website. The aim is to inform both tourists and locals about the metros connectivity, timings, and convenience. A slice of civility for the civil service Well, heres a refreshing memo from the top: bureaucrats must meet real people. Yes, the corridors of power may soon echo with the unfamiliar sound of citizens walking in not for selfies or ceremonial cups of tea, but for honest-to-goodness conversations about problems, policies, and the odd grievance. This directive comes straight from Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan, who seems to have had enough of the closed-door culture that has crept into the senior bureaucracy. Theres a perceived reluctance among many senior officials to meet anyone outside their echo chamber of government colleagues. The keyword here is perceived, but one suspects that perception and reality may not be far apart. In a letter now circulating in babudom, Somanathan reminds secretaries of all ministries that meeting members of the public is not optional and, importantly, should take place within official premises, not in clubs, hotels, or over a quiet drink at the gymkhana. (Yes, someone had to spell that out.) Such interactions can offer valuable insights into ground realities, help clarify miscommunications, and even lead to better ideas, he gently noted. One can imagine several startled secretaries mentally clearing an hour of their packed schedules. To be fair, the letter acknowledges that senior officers are pressed for time, but argues that even limited engagement with the public can go a long way in bridging gaps between policy and perception. If needed, another official can sit in on the meeting just in case things get too real.

Alternate route to strategic Depsang, DBO to be operational by end of 2026

NEW DELHI: An alternate route to the strategically significant Depsang and Daulet Beg Oldie (DBO) is in advanced stages of development and expected to become fully operational from November 2026. The new road, which runs almost parallel to the existing Darbuk--Shyok--Daulet Beg--Oldie (DSDBO) road, follows the alignment of Sasoma--Saser La--Saser Brangsa--Gapshan--DBO. Presently the Darbuk-Shyok-Daulet Beg-Oldie (DSDBO) exists as the only road link for the forces, which is under the direct observation of the Chinese forces at some locations. The strategically important 255-km DSDBO road ends at 16,614 ft high DBO, about 20 km short of the 18,700-ft high KK Pass. It has around 37 bridges, of various lengths and width, making the communication smooth. The alternate road to DBO, which is about 130-km-long, has a total of 9 bridges of 40T capacity. Sources close to the development said: We have completed everything from Sasoma to Saser Brangsa and ahead of it, eastward---Murgo and Gapshan---over 70 per cent work is done. We are certain that the entire stretch will be operational by October-November next year. For the forces, the new route will give another communication line and facilitate faster troop-armament movement. Almost all artillery weapons, including the Bofors were moved on this axis till Saser Brangsa to test its carrying load capacity, sources said. The new road will also beef up the Siachen battlefield, as it branches off from Sasoma in the Nubra Valley, which is on the route to the Siachen Base Camp from Leh. The route will converge with the Darbuk-Shyok-DBO road at Murgo, reducing the distance from Leh to DBO by 79 km from 322-km via DSDBO road to 243-km via the new road. It will also reduce the travel time from 2 days to 11-12 hours. The work on strengthening the bridges is also on. We are also converting the existing 40T capacity bridges into 70T capacity bridges. Once they are completed, the army will be able to deploy heavier vehicles, and other armoured vehicles, which are crucial for offensive and defensive operations, particularly in challenging terrains. Plans are afoot to make it an all-weather road, the Border Road Organisation (BRO) is also building a 8-km-long tunnel at Saser La at 17,660-feet high and currently it is at detailed project report (DPR) stage. It will take 4-5 years to complete the tunnel project. BRO's projects Himank and Vijayak are responsible for construction and maintenance of critical road infrastructure in Ladakh. India shares 832 km long Line of Actual Control with China in eastern Ladakh. From Sasoma to Saser Brangsa, the construction work is being looked at by the BROs Project Vijayak, involving a cost of Rs 300 crore. Ahead of Saser Brangsa till DBO, the BROs Project Himank is mandated to build the road and bridges, costing Rs 200 crore. The alternate route will have larger accrued military benefits on-ground: the deployment of troops, weapons and logistics to forward bases in DBO and other areas would become easier since Siachen base camp is near. The Siachen base camp functions as the third stage of acclimatisation, which is crucial due to high-altitude and low oxygen levels. With acclimatisation, the human body adjusts to the lower oxygen levels and reduces the risk of altitude sickness. This makes the base camp crucial for effective deployment and improved troop efficiency. The momentum for the second road to DBO picked up as the military tensions between India and China escalated. TNIE broke this story in May 2020, as skirmish took place between the PLA Troops and Indian Army soldiers both sides mobilised a large body of troops in a standoff mode since May 2020. Although disengagement, moving back from the standoff location, from all friction points have taken place the troops remain in the vicinity. Significance of the new road The new road is significant as it will serve as an alternate route to the existing DSDBO road, which is vulnerable to the PLAs direct line of sight and can be threatened, as happened in Galwan during critical times. The Galwan valley is on the same stretch, and the Chinese had carried out a build-up along the Galwan River valley during the stand-off. This also led to violent clashes between the two sides in June 2020, resulting in the killing of soldiers from both sides. This new route will give an alternate and safe access to the militarily important Sub Sector North (SSN), which includes DBO and Depsang plains. SSN, which includes Depsang, is strategically vital. Depsang is also a crucial link to Siachen and the Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO) airfield, the highest in the world at an altitude of 5065 metres (16,614 feet). The terrain permits large-scale armour operations, and China has multiple roads supplying the area, while India has only the DSDBO Road. There are 65 patrolling points along the LAC in eastern Ladakh, stretching from the south of the Karakoram Pass to the southern part of Demchok. The roads strategic importance is that it connects Leh to DBO, virtually at the base of the Karakoram Pass that separates Chinas Xinjiang Autonomous Region from Ladakh, the source said. Although disengagement at Depsang took place, in October 2024, it had triggered the Indian side to beef up its line of communication. The standoff at Depsang was significant and sensitive, as Chinese troops blocked access to five patrolling points -- 10, 11, 11A, 12, and 13. The blocked area was around 952 sq. km, according to sources. The five patrolling points in question are east of the strategic Sub-Sector North road, close to the LAC but within Indian territory. The bailey bridge to Hot Spring being assembled by BRO personnel. What is Line of Actual Control? Undemarcated borders between India and China, where both countries exercise actual control on ground and have differing perceptions, is the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with a length of 3,488km. It is further defined into 3 sectors Western (Eastern Ladakh), Central sector (Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand), Eastern Sector (Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh). The current focus area under tension is Eastern Ladakh (832km). To strengthen connectivity and bolster strategic infrastructure in border regions, the Government of India established the Border Roads Organisation in 1960. With the ongoing threat perception involving the western and northern borders and in order to step up the pace of work in remote and high-altitude areas, the BRO has been shifting heavy machines close to the construction sites. It has been carrying out upgrades of technology, equipment, and engineering skills. Border Roads Organisation is concentrating simultaneously on the Northern and North-Eastern Borders and for the holistic development of roads in border areas. ]The tensions prevail specifically along the eastern Ladakh and there is precautionary deployment all along the claimed 3,488 kms long Line of Actual Control. More than 1,20,000 soldiers of the Indian army and PLA amassed along the LAC with heavy equipment like missiles, artillery, and tanks. Roads prove integral to maintain such heavy deployment, however, the high altitude and rarefied atmosphere makes construction activities difficult.

Somalians shouldnt run for office in US: Hate floods in as Omar Fateh runs for Minneapolis mayor

Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan asks top officers to meet non-officials

Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan has advised senior government officers to meet non-official individuals seeking appointments, stating that such interactions are key to understanding on-ground realities and correcting miscommunications.

Patel power play as AAP challenges BJP Gujarat citadel

AHMEDABAD : The political battleground in Gujarat is witnessing a renewed churn around the influential Patidar community, with multiple players vying for dominance in this electoral bloc. While the BJP continues to command a grip on the Patel vote bank, bolstered by its top leadership comprising influential Patidar figures, emerging challenges from the AAP and internal lobbying within the Congress are beginning to shift the political discourse. The AAP, under the leadership of Gopal Italia, has stepped up efforts to erode the BJPs dominance in the Patidar belt. Though the Congress has failed to make a lasting dent in the BJPs support among Patels, it is currently witnessing a power tussle within its own state unit. While its Patidar leaders are pushing for a Patel to be appointed as the new state Congress president, a counter-lobby led by the OBC bloc is pressing for an OBC leader to take charge. A political confrontation has turned Morbi into the epicentre of Gujarats electoral drama. The spark came when BJP MLA Kanti Amrutiya, during a public event, challenged AAPs Gopal Italia to contest elections from his Morbi seat. Amrutiya vowed to resign from the assembly on Monday and even pledged Rs 2 crore to Italia if he managed to win. If he has the support of the Patidar community, let him prove it in Morbi, Amrutiya asserted. Vankaner BJP MLA Jitu Somani threw his weight behind Amrutiyas challenge. If Italia wins from Morbi, I will resign from my seat in Vankaner. Let him put in his papers on Monday and enter the ring, Somani declared. Gopal Italia accepted the challenge in a video response. If the BJP MLAs truly resign, Im ready to contest. One must not go back on their word. I accept this challenge, Italia expressed.

Somanna flags off extended train service

KCR admitted to hospital again in one week

Hyderabad: Former Telangana Chief Minister and Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) president K. Chandrasekhar Rao was again admitted to a private hospital here for medical investigations. The 71-year-old leader was admitted to Yashoda Hospital, Somajiguda, on Thursday on the advice of doctors. He was accompanied by his wife Shobha, nephew and former Minister T. Harish Rao Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Manipur HC directs NIA to file progess report on Jiribam killings

GUWAHATI: The Manipur High Court has directed the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to file a progress report in connection with the November 11, 2024 killings of three women and three children -- all members of the Meitei community -- in Jiribam. A division bench, comprising Chief Justice K Somashekar and Justice Ahanthem Bimol Singh, issued the direction during the hearing of a public interest litigation on Monday. The petitioner, Soram Tekendrajit, had sought justice for the victims. The court said although an FIR was filed on November 11, 2024 itself, yet no progress report had been submitted and no charge filed by the investigation agency. There is no progress report submitted by the NIA represented by Mr. W Darakeshwor. The said counsel in this case seeks a short accommodation on the premises that he wants to submit a detailed progress report in terms of charge sheet. If charge sheet is not filed, this matter should be viewed seriously, the court said. The NIA counsel was directed to submit the detailed progress report in terms of charge sheet before the court. The matter will be heard again on July 24 next. The six victims all from the Meitei community were allegedly abducted by Kuki militants from Borobekra in Jiribam on the same day Central Reserve Police Force and Manipur Police gunned down 10 Kuki armed Kuki miscreants in the area. The bullet-riddled bodies of the six were recovered on different days from the Barak River along the Manipur-Assam border. The killings triggered widespread protests in the Imphal Valley during which mobs attacked the houses of several legislators. Jiribam, located on Manipurs westernmost boundary adjoining Assams Cachar district, was the last district to be affected by the ethnic conflict between Meiteis and Kukis. It has a mixed population of Meiteis, Kukis and other tribal and non-tribal communities.

Zoho Corp Expands R&D with New Campus in Kottarakkara Kerala, a Tier-four Town, and Acquires Start-up Asimov Robotics

The official announcement was made during the inauguration of Zohos Kottarakkara campus, which was presided over by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Finance Minister K N Balagopal. Also present were Zoho US Co-founder Tony Thomas, Zoho Chief Scientist Sridhar Vembu, Member of Parliament Kodikunnil Suresh, Kerala Startup Mission CEO Anoop Ambika, and former ISRO Chairman Dr S Somanath.

Ex-Telangana CM KCR discharged from Hyderabad hospital after brief stay

LHyderabad: Telanganas former chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) was released from Somajigudas Yashoda Hospital, Hyderabad, following short hospitalization for general weakness and co-morbid health issues. KCR was rushed to the hospital late at night on July 3 reporting weakness and fatigue. He was found to have high blood sugar and low sodium levels in Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Migrant Workers Body Reaches Native Place From Israel

Telangana Israel Association president Soma Ravi said that Ravinders last rites were conducted on Wednesday.

Train tickets to be costlier from July 1, know fares of AC, non-AC coaches, 'fares will beraisedin...'

Union Minister of State for Railways V Somanna on Friday said train fares will be raised in stages without affecting the commuters. The minister also said that discussions for the changes are going on. July will see some major changes in tickets including Aadhar-based authentication.

Ajit Pawar walks tightrope in Maharashtra alliance: Dials Kirit Somaiya, slams VHP, resists Hindi push

Maharashtra's Deputy CM Ajit Pawar is emerging as a voice of restraint. He intervened in Kirit Somaiya's mosque visits after Muslim groups objected. Pawar also opposed the promotion of Hindi in primary schools. He criticised VHP and Bajrang Dal's role in Nagpur riots. This stance sparks debate about his motives and NCP(A)'s identity.

Godavari-Banakacherla project may compromise Andhra Pradeshs rights over Krishna waters, fears thinkers forum

Appealing to the Chief Minister to safeguard the States water rights over the Godavari and Krishna rivers, it insists on accelerating the PolavaramSomasila interlink, completing the ongoing Rayalaseema projects, and protecting the constitutional and tribunal-based entitlements

Andhra Pradeshs space policy aims at attracting 25,000 crore investment, generating 35,000 jobs

Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu gives the green signal for development of two Space Cities at Lepakshi and Tirupati; Andhra Pradeshs timely policy intervention will give it a competitive edge in the expanding space economy, says Honorary Adviser and former ISRO Chairman Somanath

Gujarat Congress Vice President Hira Jotva grilled by police over Rs 7.3 crore MNREGA scam

AHMEDABAD: An assistant project manager has flagged a shocking MNREGA scam worth Rs 7.3 crore across villages in Gujarat's Bharuch district, Amod, Jambusar, and Hansot Taluka. Acting on the complaint, Bharuch police have now summoned Congress leader Hira Jotva from Gir Somnath for questioning. Sources indicate that police may move toward arresting him following the interrogation. The Rs 7.30 crore fraud, spanning 430 development works across 56 villages in Amod, Jambusar, and Hansot talukas, was first flagged on May 30 by a government official from the Gram Vikas Agency, who filed a formal complaint at Bharuchs A Division Police Station. The investigation zeroed in on two Veraval-based firms Shri Jalaram Enterprise and Muralidhar Enterprise contracted for supplying material under MNREGA projects. These agencies allegedly manipulated records, provided substandard material, and bypassed mandatory manual labour by using machines, thereby violating the core principles of the rural employment scheme and causing massive losses to the state exchequer. Police identified Piyush Nukani, owner of Shri Jalaram Enterprise, and Jodhabhai Sabhad, owner of Muralidhar Enterprise, as key players in the racket. Crucially, both are reported to have close ties to senior Congress leader Hira Jotwani a link that has now drawn political attention to the case. Following the FIR, Bharuch SP formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the scandal. The SIT, after recording statements from workers and agency staff, summoned Hira Jotva to Bharuch for questioning regarding his association with the two contractors. Officials are probing whether Jotva played any role in facilitating or shielding the scam. However, at the time of writing, police have not officially declared whether Hira Jotva has been officially arrested or detained. Bharuch Congress Leader Sandeep Mangrola said, Hira Jotva was detained from Gir Somanth, and police are bringing him here at Bharuch for questioning. Hira Jotva is a prominent face in Gujarat Congress politics. He contested the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from Junagadh and had earlier fought the 2022 Assembly polls from Keshod. He also served as the General Secretary of the Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) from 2019 to 2023 and is currently its Vice President. As questioning continues, the police are examining financial trails and political connections to determine the full scale and backing behind the scam. Legal proceedings are underway, and more detentions could follow based on emerging evidence.

Chinnadha Oru Padam: Sivakarthikeyan unveils first look of Tamil anthology starring Vidharth, Prasanna and others

Set to release in theatres on July 25, the anthology film also features Santhanam, Guru Somasundaram, Robo Shankar and Bala Saravanan in special supporting roles

Top HSC Performers Honoured at Somaiya Vidyavihar University's Academic Excellence Ceremony

admission.somaiya.edu/svuet .

Mosque loudspeaker row: Ajit Pawar directs police not to take any wrongful action

Maharashtra Deputy CMs comment came after the delegation of Muslim leaders complained of campaigns against loudspeakers by Kirit Somaiya in several areas of Mumbai, as well as police action on removing the loudspeakers

Muslim leaders meet Ajit Pawar over loudspeakers at mosques

Muslim leaders met with Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar to voice concerns over the removal of loudspeakers from mosques. They alleged that police action was prompted by BJP leader Kirit Somaiya's demands, despite mosques adhering to permissible decibel limits set by the High Court. Pawar emphasized adherence to decibel limits and tasked the police to act on violations.

AU Law Student Shines Nationally in CUET-PG 2025

Kondeti Soma Sekhar ranks among the top scorers in CUET-PG 2025, chooses Central University of Punjab

Aaj Ka Panchang, June 23, 2025: Tithi, Vrat And Todays Shubh, Ashubh Muhurat

Aaj Ka Panchang, June 23, 2025: Devotees will celebrate important occasions such as Soma Pradosh Vrat and Masik Shivratri on this day.

Somanna holds review meeting in Hassan

Kavitha demands return of 5 merged villages in AP to Telangana

Hyderabad: Telangana Jagruthi President and BRS MLC K Kavitha has demanded that five villages, merged into Andhra Pradesh under the Polavaram project, be returned to Telangana. Kavitha raised this issue during a roundtable discussion titled Polavaram: Telangana pai Khadgam (Polavaram: A Sword Over Telangana), organised by Telangana Jagruthi at the Somajiguda Press Club on Friday, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Somaiya Vidyavihar University Hosts Global Conference on Technologies for Energy, Agriculture & Healthcare (ICTEAH 2025) at the Somaiya Vidyavihar campus

kjsce.somaiya.edu/en

Lifelong Celebrates World Yoga Day with Milind Soman & Ankita Konwar at an Exclusive Wellness Morning in Gurgaon

Speaking about the event, Milind Soman, Indias Fitness Icon, said, Yoga is not just a practice, its a way of life.

Maoists strangle three villagers, abduct dozen others in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur

RAIPUR: Suspected Maoists have killed three villagers who were relatives of a surrendered commander of the banned outfit at Peddakorma village and abducted around a dozen local inhabitants in Bijapur, about 450 km south of Raipur. The killings by Maoists are seemingly in retaliation for the huge loss of their cadres killed by security forces in the ongoing offensive operations in Bastar. According to local sources, Maoist cadres led by local leader Vella stormed into the village and strangled the relatives of surrendered Naxal commander Dinesh Modium. The deceased victims--identified as Jhingu Modium, Soma Modium and Anil Madwi--were strangled by rope in the presence of other villagers. A former Divisional Committee Member (DVCM), Dinesh Modium relinquished his position in the CPI (Maoist) organisation and surrendered to the police a few months ago in Bijapur. The information regarding the murder of three villagers and kidnapping of others by Maoists at Peddakorma village has been received. The police are verifying the details. Its a cowardly act of Maoists who are attempting to create an environment of fear and terror in the region, stated the Bastar police. Targeting innocents and killing them is unacceptable. We condemn such acts. Those abducted should be set free. It seems the lower naxal cadres are expressing their anger when the state is not properly responding to repeated proposals by Maoists of holding peace dialogue, but instead continuing with the planned operations, said Bela Bhatia, human rights activist. The police team will reach the spotat Peddakormafor further probe on Wednesday and send the bodies for post-mortem, officials said. The red guerrillas are pushed on the back foot by security forces across the major areas of their influence, as they are 'eluding from their secured stronghold bases'. The Maoist movement, once feared for its brutality, is now breathing its last, as peace and development take root across Bastar, asserted Sundarraj P, Bastar range IG. Over 400 Maoists have been killed in separate encounters across the Bastar zone during the last 17 months

Monsoon Nears, But Somasila Dam Repairs Stuck Over Rs 6 Crore Dues

Work halted again as contractor awaits payment; only 30% of apron repairs completed since 2021

Tangedco executive engineer held for graft in Coimbatore district

K.R. Sabarirajan, working at the Tangedco office at Somanur, had demanded and accepted 20,000 as bribe for shifting an electricity pole on a private land

Ivory Coast workers say Unilever is violating their union rights amid share sale, documents show

The bargaining agreement, dated from 2004, was confirmed by management in 2007 and remains valid, according to Lex Ways lawyer Soualiho Lassomann Diomande, who represents local staff.

Minister Somannas Udupi visit on June 13 cancelled

Learn governance from Modi, Somanna tells Siddaramaiah

Minister of State for Railways has advised the Chief Minister to stay in Delhi for eight days and watch how administration is carried out there

Kharge rules out Team Siddu rejig

KALABURAGI: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has ruled out any reshuffle in the Siddaramaiah cabinet. Speaking to reporters at his residence here, Kharge said that the party would inform if there is a reshuffle or change of guard at the KPCC. Kharge said these issues did not figure when chief minister Siddaramaiah and deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar met him and Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi on Tuesday. Our discussions were on the stampede outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium and caste survey, he said. Kharge said the stampede has worried everybody, including the Congress. It should not have happened. I, myself, and Rahul Gandhi have told the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister to take all necessary steps in future to prevent such incidents. They briefed us about the incident and the steps taken aftermath including suspension of police officers, ordering magisterial inquiry and judicial inquiry and payment of compensation to the aggrieved, he said. Reacting to BJPs demand for the resignation of the chief minister and the Deputy CM, owning moral responsibility for the stampede, Kharge questioned whether UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath had resigned when the stampede took place during Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj. They expressed anger at me when I raised questions on the stampede at Kumbh Mela, Kharge said. Kharge said the caste survey was conducted 10 years ago. Various community leaders have urged me and the government to conduct resurvey. We have advised the CM and DCM to conduct resurvey without rejecting the survey report given by Kantaraj Commission. Resurvey would be done to include those castes and sub-castes which were genuine to be included in the OBC but were not included in the previous survey, said Kharge. When reporters asked how many marks he would give for the performance of the Modi government, Kharge refused. He asked Modi to tell how many poll assurances he has fulfilled. Kharge said Modi does not have faith in democratic process. When the UPA was in power, it used to accommodate opposition by giving Deputy Speakers post in the Lok Sabha. But the NDA government has kept the Deputy Speakers post vacant for 11 years. When Kharges attention was drawn on the statement of Minister of State for Railways, Somanna, in the recent press conference at Kalaburagi that Kharge sanctioned Railway Division to Kalaburagi wrongly when he was the railway minister, he said let Somanna start commissioning of Railway Division at Kalaburagi and let him take the credit. Stampede unfortunate Mallikarjun Kharge said the stampede has worried everybody, including Congress. It should not have happened. I and Rahul Gandhi have told the CM and Deputy CM to take all necessary steps in future to prevent such incidents. They briefed us about the incident, Kharge said.

Former ISRO Chairman S. Somanath appointed as VC of Chanakya University

Stalin flags high interest rates for development loans, hopes for World Bank support

Union Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan recalls his long association with World Bank

Trumps new travel ban takes effect as tensions escalate over immigration enforcement

WASHINGTON, June 9, 2025 (AP) President Donald Trumps new ban on travel to the U.S. by citizens from 12 mainly African and Middle Eastern countries took effect Monday amid rising tension over the presidents escalating campaign of immigration enforcement. The new proclamation, which Trump signed last week, applies to citizens of Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. It also imposes heightened restrictions on people from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela who are outside the U.S. and dont hold a valid visa. The new ban

State govt. not keen on Mysuru-Kushalnagar, Hejjala-Chamarajanagar railway lines, says Somanna

Somanna reviews key railway projects in Mysuru, instructs officials to stick to timelines

No amount can compensate for lives lost in stampede, says Somanna

Trump issues total travel ban for 12 nations, partial restrictions for 7 others

The Trump administration signed a proclamation Wednesday suspending travel to the U.S. for citizens from 12 countries: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. Citing national security interests, the proclamation states that the identified countries lack sufficient vetting and screening processes needed to detect foreign nationals who [] The post Trump issues total travel ban for 12 nations, partial restrictions for 7 others appeared first on Northlines .

Trump signs proclamation banning travel from 12 nations

Washington: US President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation imposing a travel ban on 12 countries and restricting the entry of seven others to the US, citing national security concerns. According to the proclamation, the 12 countries that were banned include Afghanistan Burma Chad Congo Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Haiti Iran Libya Somalia Sudan Yemen Additionally, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

'Sad story of our own foreign policy collapse': Congress after Pakistan set to chair UNSC committee

NEW DELHI: With Pakistan set to chair a key committee of the UN Security Council and be the vice-chair of another panel of the world body, the Congress on Thursday described the development as the sad story of our own foreign policy collapse but questioned how the global community can continue to legitimise Pakistan's sponsorship of terrorism. Pakistan will chair the Taliban Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council for 2025 and will be vice-chair of the Counter-Terrorism Committee of the 15-nation UN body. Congress' media and publicity department head Pawan Khera said the IMF gave USD 1 billion to Pakistan on May 9 during Operation Sindoor. World Bank decides to give USD 40 billion to Pakistan soon after Operation Sindoor. ADB gave USD 800 million to Pakistan on June 3, soon after Operation Sindoor, he said on X. 1. IMF gave $1 billion to Pakistan on May 9 during Operation Sindoor. 2. World Bank decides to give $40 billion to Pakistan soon after Operation Sindoor. 3. ADB gave $800 million to Pakistan on June 3 soon after Operation Sindoor. And on June 4 Pakistan gets elected as Chairman pic.twitter.com/nVW4rbU8LV Pawan Khera (@Pawankhera) June 5, 2025 And on June 4, Pakistan gets elected as Chairman of the UNSC Taliban Sanctions Committee and Vice Chairman of the UNSC Counter Terrorism Committee, he pointed out. Of course, this is the sad story of our own foreign policy collapse, but how can the global community allow this continuous legitimisation of sponsorship of terrorism by Pakistan? Khera said. Pakistan will chair the 1988 Taliban Sanctions Committee that imposes an assets freeze, a travel ban and an arms embargo on individuals, groups, undertakings and entities associated with the Taliban in constituting a threat to the peace, stability and security of Afghanistan. Guyana and Russia will be vice-chairs of the Taliban sanctions committee. Pakistan will also be co-chair of the Informal Working Groups on Documentation and Other Procedural Questions and on the General UNSC Sanctions Issues. Pakistan is a non-permanent member of the 15-nation Security Council for the 2025-26 term. The sanctions committees of the Council comprise all 15 members of the Security Council and make their decisions by consensus. India was Chair of the UNSC Counter-terrorism Committee for 2022 during its 2021-22 tenure in the Council as a non-permanent member. India has consistently reminded the international community that Pakistan is host to the world's largest number of UN-proscribed terrorists and entities. Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was hiding in Pakistan's Abbottabad for years and was killed in an operation by the US Navy Seals in May 2011. China, France, Russia, the UK and the US are the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, while Algeria, Denmark, Greece, Guyana, Pakistan, Panama, South Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, and Somalia are currently in the Council as non-permanent members. India slams Pakistan at UNSC, says it has experienced decades of Islamabad-sponsored terrorist attacks

Trump travel ban: US imposes entry ban on 12 nations, adds restrictions on 7 others

US President Donald Trump has reinstated and expanded a travel ban, blocking or restricting entry from 19 countries, citing national security threats and visa overstay concerns. The ban, effective Monday, targets 12 nations with full travel restrictions and seven with partial limits. Trumps move revives his earlier travel policy, scrapped by Joe Biden in 2021, and comes amid heightened political rhetoric on immigration control and terrorism risks. The countries listed include Afghanistan, Iran, Somalia and Myanmar, many of which are African or Muslim-majority.

Trump announces travel ban affecting dozen countries including Afghanistan and Iran

The countries include Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.

MP Flags Off AnantapurBengaluru Train; Urges For Vande Bharat Via Anantapur

He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Minister V. Somanna for their cooperation in launching the new service.

Telangana journalists, activists support tribal museum in OU campus

Hyderabad: Senior journalists and social activists came in support of establishing a tribal museum in the two professors quarters in Osmania University, leased by Adi Dhwani Trust, founded by retired professor Jayadheer Tirumala Rao. Addressing the media at Somajiguda Press Club on Tuesday, June 3, they assured that the 6 mini-museums being setup in the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

8 Fitness Habits to Steal from Milind Somans 85-Year-Old Mom

Milind Somans mother Usha Somans fitness journey proves age is no barrier - daily movement, consistency, and passion keep her strong and inspiring at 85.

Somanna slams Siddaramaiah for implicating farmers opposing Hemavathi link canal project

The Central Minister says that the Chief Minister now-a-days is like a train that missed the village station

Somanna lays foundation stones for railway projects in Bidar district

Bombay High Court holds businessmans arrest in Rs 67 cr case illegal, orders his release

The Bombay High Court declared Hemang Shah's arrest illegal due to the police's failure to produce him before a magistrate within 24 hours. Justices Gauri Godse and Somasekhar Sundaresan ordered his immediate release from Arthur Road Jail, citing a violation of Article 22(2) of the Constitution.

UOI notifies appointment of three new judges to SC; strength rises to 34

NEW DELHI: The Centre on Thursday notified the elevation of three new judges to the Supreme Court following the Presidents assent to the collegiums recommendations. The three new judges who are elevated to the top court are; Justices V. Anjaria, Chief Justice, High Court of Karnataka, (ii) Vijay Bishnoi, Chief Justice, High Court of Gauhati and (iii) A.S. Chandurkar, Judge, High Court of Bombay. These three new judges are expected to be sworn in by the Chief Justice of India (CJI) Bhushan R Gavai on Friday morning, as per sources. With the elevation of these three new judges in the top court, the actual number of judges rises to 34, which is also the sanctioned capacity of the top court. Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Law and Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Ram Meghwal, talking to X (Formerly known as Twitter), shared the news. In exercise of the powers conferred by the Constitution of India, the President, after consultation with Chief Justice of India, is pleased to appoint S/Shri Justices (i) N.V. Anjaria, Chief Justice, High Court of Karnataka, (ii) Vijay Bishnoi, Chief Justice, High Court of Gauhati and (iii) A.S. Chandurkar, Judge, High Court of Bombay as Judges of the Supreme Court of India, Meghwal posted. On May 26, the Supreme Court collegium had recommended the appointment of their names to be elevated to the SC . The Centre took four days to deliberate upon these judges' names to consider appointing them in the top court and accordingly sent its decision to the apex court collegium. This was the second recommendation made under the leadership of Chief Justice Gavai, who took the reins recently on May 14 from CJI Sanjiv Khanna (former). The SC Collegium, headed by the CJI Gavai, took the decision of recommending these names -- Justices Anjaria, Bishnoi and Chandurkar -- after deliberating upon their experience and expertise in handling of cases. The apex court's five-member Collegium -- headed by the CJI Gavai -- had recommended these three names for the appointment as SC judges, following the retirement of former Chief Justice of India (CJI) Khanna, and Justices Bela M Trivedi and A S Oka recently. The Supreme Court Collegium earlier on May 15 recommended the appointment of Karnataka High Courts Justice Kempaiah Somashekar as Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court.

Karnataka: MoS Somanna takes on Shivakumar over threat to Tumakuru water

A water dispute is brewing between Tumakuru and Bengaluru South as Deputy CM DK Shivakumar seeks Hemavathy water for his district. This move has angered Union Minister V Somanna, who fears it will deprive Tumakuru farmers. Somanna urges CM Siddaramaiah to halt the project, suggesting Shivakumar focus on local water resources instead, warning of protests if ignored.

BJP Expels 2 MLAs For 6 Years After 'Anti-Party' Activities In Karnataka

The BJP in Karnataka on Tuesday expelled two of its MLAs, S T Somashekar and A Shivaram Hebbar, for six years for alleged anti-party activities, party's state president B Y Vijayendra said.

After giving them a long rope, BJP expels two rebel MLAs for anti-party activity

S.T. Somashekhar and Arabail Shivaram Hebbar had shifted loyalties to BJP from Congress in 2019

'Absolutely shocking': Bombay HC slams Maharashtra government over arrest of 19-year-old student for post on Op Sindoor

The Bombay High Court on Tuesday came down heavily on the Maharashtra government while granting bail to a 19-year-old engineering student from Pune arrested for her social media post critical of Operation Sindoor. A vacation bench of Justices Gauri Godse and Somasekhar Sundaresan said it was absolutely shocking that the student has been treated like a hardcore criminal by the government. This is absolutely shocking. It appears like police officers are bent upon ruining her life. Equally the college, Justice Godse remarked ordering the immediate release of the girl, currently lodged in Pune's Yerwada Central prison. The court ordered the student to be released on Tuesday itself and made it clear that it will not at all accept any excuses later if the authorities fail to release her today before sunset. The concerned officer of the prison is directed to ensure that she is released today evening itself so that she can appear for her college examination, the court said, suspending the rustication order passed against her and directing the institution to issue her a hall ticket. The rustication order has been issued hurriedly without giving the student an opportunity to give her explanation, the court said. The court also noted that the student should not have been arrested at all since she had deleted the post immediately, expressed remorse and apologised for the same. Khadija Sheikh, a second-year IT engineering student at Pune's Sinhgad Academy of Engineeringan unaided private college affiliated with Savitribai Phule Pune University was arrested on May 9 for Instagram stories criticising the Indian government during the Indo-Pak hostilities amid Operation Sindoor. Within two hours after sharing the Instagram stories on May 7, she deleted them following a barrage of threats. However, the girl was arrested and booked under Sections 152, 196, 197, 299, 352 and 353 of Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, 2023. Along with the Pune city police, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and intelligence agencies joined the probe in the case. Following the arrest, on May 9, her college issued a rustication letter stating that since the girl had brought disrepute to the institution, it was justified to preserve the institution's ethos. It further said the student had anti-national sentiments and posed a isk to the campus community and society. The girl had to be escorted out of college due to protests against her. Observing that the girl's act of sharing such posts can be termed as an act of indiscretion by a young student, the court said, The girl has posted something and then realised her mistake and apologised. Instead of giving her a chance to reform, the state government has arrested her and turned her into a criminal. The court questioned the conduct of the government and the college. Someone is expressing their opinion, and this is how you ruin her life? A student's life has been ruined, it said. When additional government pleader P P Kakade argued that the girl's post was against the national interest, the court remarked, How can the state arrest a student like this? Does the state want students to stop expressing their opinions? Such a radical reaction from the state will further radicalise the person. The bench also rapped the college for rusticating the girl, saying that an educational institution's approach should be to reform, not punish. When the counsel for the college argued that 'students need to follow some discipline' the judges remarked, Who is stopping you from this? First inculcate some discipline in the institute then discipline students. Practice what you preach. Instead of reforming her and making her understand, you have turned her into a criminal. You want the student to turn into a criminal? the court asked. It said the girl is at an age where mistakes are bound to happen and she had suffered enough. While the girl had initially moved the HC challenging the decision taken by her college rusticating her, her lawyer Farhana Shah on Tuesday also filed a petition seeking quashing of the FIR and bail. The teen, in her plea, stated that the college's decision was arbitrary and a gross violation of her fundamental rights. She requested the high court to quash the rustication, order her reinstatement, and allow her to appear for the semester exams scheduled to begin on May 24. The student contended that the rustication order passed by the institution, was arbitrary and unlawful. She also stated that she had reposted the social media post without ill intent and immediately apologised.

Bombay High Court slams Maharashtra govt for college student's arrest over post on India-Pakistan conflict, says, 'Such a radical...'

The Bombay High Court has pulled up the government of Maharashtra over the arrest of a teenaged college student in Pune for a social media post on the India-Pakistan conflict. A vacation bench of Justice Gauri Godse and Justice Somasekhar Sundaresan was hearing the teen girl's plea.

BJP expels 2 Karnataka MLAs for 'anti-party activities'

The BJP has expelled two of its MLAs in Karnataka, S T Somashekar and A Shivaram Hebbar, for six years for their alleged anti-party activities. The party high command took a decision after long deliberations. The duo had won the 2023 Assembly election on the BJP ticket but soon started hobnobbing with the Congress, saffron party insiders said. They were often ignored party's diktat, instructions and had stopped attending the party meetings as well. In the Karnataka Assembly as well, they were seen supporting the ruling Congress, with which they were long associated before 2019, they alleged. Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar criticised the action, saying that there are so many FIRs and investigations underway against some legislators, while some BJP legislators tried to infect the leader of opposition with HIV and tried to trap former Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa but no action was taken against them, he alleged.

Karnataka BJP expels two MLAs for six years over anti-party activities

Somashekar and Hebbar, who represent Yashwanthpur and Yellapur Assembly constituencies respectively, have not responded so far.

BJP Expels Two Karnataka MLAs for Six Years Over Anti-Party Activities

S T Somashekar and A Shivaram Hebbar removed from party for alleged dissent, says BJP state chief B Y Vijayendra

Bombay HC Slams Maharashtra Govt Over Student's arrest for Post on Indo-Pak Conflict

A vacation bench of Justices Gauri Godse and Somasekhar Sundaresan asked the teen's lawyer to immediately file a bail plea, which it said it would grant today itself.

BJP expels two MLAs for anti-party activities in Karnataka

In Karnataka, the Bharatiya Janata Party took action against two of its Members of the Legislative Assembly. S T Somashekar and A Shivaram Hebbar were expelled from the party for six years. B Y Vijayendra, the state president, cited their involvement in anti-party activities as the reason. The decision was made after careful consideration by the party high command.

Uttarakhand CAT bench issues contempt notices to Cabinet Secretary, two top officials in Sanjiv Chaturvedi case

DEHRADUN: The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT)'s Nainital Bench has issued contempt notices to three of India's most senior bureaucrats: Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan, Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra, and Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) Secretary P. Daniel. Issued on Wednesday, the notices relate to the downgrading of IFS officer Sanjeev Chaturvedi's appraisal report. It is the first case that a Cabinet Secretary has received such a notice in a service matter. The CAT's action, according to sources, stems from a February 23, 2023, order. This order was prompted by Chaturvedi's application seeking documents related to high-profile corruption inquiries he conducted during his tenure as Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO). Chaturvedi alleges his 2015-16 Appraisal Report was downgraded due to these actions, leading him to file his original petition in July 2017. These contempt notices arise from a petition filed by whistleblower IFS officer Sanjeev Chaturvedi in December 2023, alleging non-compliance with previous Tribunal orders. The CAT had earlier, on April 21, 2023, issued 'show cause' notices, questioning why contempt proceedings shall not be initiated against them for non-compliance of orders dated 23.02.2023 and 23.03.2023 passed by the Tribunal. The next hearing is fixed for July 9. As senior counsel Sudershan Goyal explained to TNIE , The core dispute involves CAT's February and March 2023 orders, directing officials to provide Chaturvedi with documents related to alleged closures of high-profile corruption enquiries he conducted as Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO). Chaturvedi maintains his 2015-16 appraisal was downgraded due to these actions, prompting his original petition in July 2017. While AIIMS, Delhi, obtained a stay on these CAT orders from the Nainital High Court in May 2023, the High Court crucially clarified in May 2024 that the Cabinet Secretary, Union Health Secretary, and CVC were not covered by this stay. Despite this clarification, Chaturvedi alleges the documents remain withheld. The Cabinet Secretary's direct involvement in the matter dates back to December 2017, when the Centre initially sought to remove his name from the petition. However, CAT rejected this request in April 2018, ruling him a ecessary party due to his approval for Chaturvedi's deputation and the specific prayers made against him. The current action marks the tenth contempt proceeding initiated by Chaturvedi against senior central government officials. His notable past cases include notices issued by the Nainital High Court to the DoPT Secretary (Oct 2023) and former Union Health Secretary (July 2019); by the Delhi High Court to three CBI officers (Sep 2023, Mar 2024); and by CAT to the Union Forest and Environment Secretary (Feb 2023) and its Chairman (Feb 2019). Sanjeev Chaturvedi is widely known for his unwavering commitment to fighting corruption. His distinguished career includes service in the Government of Haryana and later as Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO) at AIIMS, Delhi, where he unearthed numerous corruption cases. His relentless efforts earned him the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award in July 2015.